More than $35K and counting for improvements at Riverton library's Community Room

Nov 20, 2014 By Kelli Ameling, Staff Writer

More than $35,000 has been raised and donated to help remodel the Community Room at the Riverton Branch Library.

"It's been very heartwarming for us," said Fremont County Library Systems director Tracy Cook. "It has made us aware of how many people value the library and the staff."

Campaigning for funds started earlier this year in hopes to raise about $50,000 to make repairs to the community room.

A recent tally showed $35,243 in the fund for the Community Room, which was built in 1983.

Typically the room sees 3,000 users and spectators a year for different events.

The room is used for meetings, different types of training, wellness fairs, piano recitals, plays and more.

"It has been used by a variety of different groups over the years, from service organizations to government agencies," she said.

So far, the library has been able to install new audio and video equipment.

Cook said other enhancements include new carpeting, along with replacing the chairs and drapes.

"Our hope was to have the project completed by early next year," Cook said.

The process has been a good way to connect with the community.

"We've also had a lot of fun with the community members at our music events and the mini-golf in the library event that we held," Cook said.

Support groups, such as Friends of the Riverton Library Branch and the Fremont County Library Foundation, have helped advance the project.

In September, the Fremont County Library Foundation donated $20,000 to the Community Room renovation.

"It's also been great to work with the Friends of the Riverton Library Branch and the Fremont County Library Foundation. Their support had encouragement as we work on this project has inspired us to come up with new ideas," Cook said.

Anyone interested in making a donation can do so by contacting the Riverton Branch Library at 856-3556.